Top 3

Beach Break Cafe

Beach Break is known for their “Killer Burrito,” with ingredients like seasoned ground beef, Ortega chilis, eggs, cheese, bacon, guacamole, salsa and sour cream. Beach Break Cafe is a popular spot among locals featuring a number of great home-style favorites, such as omelets, pancakes, burgers and grilled sandwiches. The restaurant is family-friendly, with outgoing servers and plenty of options for kids. The dining room is bright and open, spotted with comfortable booths and tables.

Angelo’s Burgers

Yes, there is more to Angelo’s than great burgers. They are also know for their tasty, ENORMOUS breakfast burritos. If you are ready to gorge, then this is the burrito for you. Angelo’s Burgers is located along South Coast Highway, near downtown Oceanside. The popular fast food restaurant offers burgers, sandwiches and select Mexican cuisine. The inside is bright and open, with plenty of tables to accommodate large groups.

Colima’s Mexican Restaurant

Colima’s Mexican Restaurant is situated along Pier View Way in downtown Oceanside. It offers a plethora of Mexican cuisine in a comfortable, neighborhood atmosphere. From Burritos to Sopes to Tacos and more, the restaurant has it covered. The atmosphere is laid back, with a family friendly vibe and fast service.

Honorable Mentions

Roberto’s

Buccaneer Cafe

Johnny Mañanas

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Delicious Street Tacos

Seasoned Carne Asada topped with pico de galle & a side of tortilla chips

Ribbon Fries & Shrimp Salad (from the Mongolian Kabob booth)

Crunch potato chips sliced thin & lightly salted… delicious!

Fresh greens (cucumber, lettuce, bell pepper, onion & tomato) served with plump shrimp and a tangy dressing

Cuban Beverages

Tangy and sweet juices including strawberry, mango, pineapple, watermelon & sour apple.

Dollar Dog

If your wallet is tight this week, stop by the popular hot dog stand for a $1 dog. You can’t miss the elderly gentleman dressed up as a hot dog!

Cheesecake in a Cup

Local favorite Vonda Lee’s no-bake cheesecake in a cup comes in a variety of flavors. Favorites include blackberry, toffee, and caramel (pictured).

Baked Goods

Delicious baked cookies, 1 for $3 or 2 for $5. Popular favorites include Lemon Cream and Peanut Butter dipped in Chocolate (pictured).

Do you have a favorite dish at the Sunset Market? Share it with us on Facebook and we’ll check it out next time! Happy eating!

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Rim Talay Thai Cuisine

Rim Talay has a gluten free menu and many gluten free options for their popular dishes.

Pictured: Fried Rice (Gluten free option by request) 

Yelp says:

“We were attracted to the reviews which highlighted the Gluten Free nature of the food here and walked away very glad that we tried it… We ended up ordering the gluten free house fried rice which was very tasty.” Steve C., Yelp

Fratelli’s Italian Kitchen

There is certainly something for everyone at Fratelli’s, where they cater to all food types including gluten free! You won’t miss out on salads, pizza or pastas here!

Pictured: Tomato Caprese Salad 

Yelp says:

“Best gluten free penne pasta anywhere!  I’ve tried gluten free pasta at home, and at many Italian restaurants, and am always disappointed – except at Fratelli’s.” Nigel H., Yelp 

Gourmet Tamales 

This tamale stand is a part of the Oceanside Farmer’s Market and will satisfy your vegan & gluten free tamale fix!

Pictured: vegan options 

Yelp says:

“I love these tamales, so many delicious vegan options! Gluten free, and soy free… and everything is so good.” Sera A., Yelp 

333 Pacific

Tons of salads, sushi, crab & lobster, seafood specialty items and sides are gluten-free (and noted on the menu)

Pictured: Shrimp & Grits

Yelp says:

“They are VERY knowledgeable about the gluten free diet… and very accommodating…Their menu has certain things labeled as gluten free, but just ask about the others and how/if they can be made…[gluten free].” Erin R., Yelp 

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Mad Mantis Food Truck

Eclectic, delicious and surprisingly healthy food from a mobile kitchen. Follow Mad Mantis Food Truck on twitter or facebook, find them and come try some delicious food! Note that they are also available for catering services.

“Not your ordinary food truck! Great and delicious combinations of some of the greatest entrees. I got the mahi-mahi fish tacos, not your ordinary since it has delicious cranberry sauce, avo, and all the reg rest! Can’t wait to try something else next! Added bonus: The take credit cards!” Yelp Review: Tiffany G.

The Sushi Bus

Entrepreneurial sushi chefs selling take-out bento boxes out of the back of an old ice cream truck might not ring your bell. However, The Sushi Bus is offering up fresh California cuisine at local breweries, private parties, or business events. Track them down by following The Sushi Bus on facebook or twitter.

“You would have a hard time finding better sushi in a brick & mortar restaurant, especially at their price points!  The flavor of their sauces and quality of the fish are top notch.” Yelp Review: Michael S.

Red Oven Pizza

Red Oven Pizza is a la vera pizza Napoletana mobile pizzeria where every ingredient is prepared in the wood oven. Ask them about lunch service, catering, weddings, school fundraisers, or other public events. Then, don’t forget to follow them on facebook and twitter too!

“A recent find, but I’m already head over heels. These guys haul around a real brick oven on the back of their truck. They set up this thing every time they touch down in an office park or brewery. That’s real love for pizza, guys. Real love.” Yelp Review: Lindsay L.

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The Top 5

Harbor Fish House

Harbor Fish and Chips is located in Oceanside Harbor. The restaurant is snuggled in a small village on the water front.  Harbor Fish and Chips has been recognized several times in magazines and on local T. V. for our authentic fish and chips, fish tacos and seafood menu. The outside dinning area sits along the waters edge, with a great view of what makes Oceanside Harbor a great destination.

Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill

Since 1983, Rubio’s has served delicious fish tacos and fresh Mexican food for customers. The Original Fish Taco recipe has become the basis for everything that Rubio’s stands for: memorable, seafood recipes that reflect their Mexican heritage and the Southern California coast. This long-time favorite is prepared fresh in our kitchens with one faithfully-followed recipe: Wild Alaska Pollock, beer-battered-by-hand and cooked to crispy perfection. Topped with shredded cabbage, mild salsa, and our signature white sauce, all wrapped in a warm, stone-ground corn tortilla.

Bull Taco

Bull Taco does things in a unique and progressive way. With over 60 years of professional culinary experience among the staff, they love pushing the culinary envelope. They source exotic meats and seafood’s from around the world as well as from local fisherman and their farm in Vista, CA. Bull Taco brings taste to customers they have never experienced before. This passion for great food really shows in their amazing fish tacos.

Pedro’s Tacos

Surfers and locals alike were quick to discover the unique flavor of Pedro’s famous fish taco and the low prices. Pedro’s makes a fried fish taco, and much like a good taco shop should, it comes to you piping hot on a bed of cool crisp cabbage and pico.  The golden battered piece of fish hangs delightfully out of both ends of the doubled up corn tortilla and they add a little creamy sauce to the mix for good measure.

Beach Break Cafe

The Beach Break Cafe is a local favorite, serving up extraordinary breakfast, fantastic lunch, and incredible dinner menus. However, we are here to talk fish tacos. At Beach Break you will enjoy perfectly marinated Mahi-Mahi, delicately seasoned, then grilled and topped with their zesty sauce and some cole slaw on the side. Couldn’t ask for more.

Honorable Mentions

Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill

Tin Fish Oceanside

Angelo’s Burgers (yep, they have tacos and they are great!)

Mariscos La Encenada

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Petite Madeline Bakery

Pastries including S’mores, Cheesecake and Tiramisu – and that’s just the beginning. Specials change daily so every visit is a new adventure! Pictured: the S’more

“HOLY MOLY…. I got the S’more and it’s not like any S’more I’ve ever eaten. It had like a rich chocolate mousse and that homemade marshmallow was heavenly.” Charlene C., Yelp

Le Rendez-Vous French Bakery 

They have certainly mastered the chocolate pastry & chocolate croissant here!

“The chocolate almond pastry… was DELICIOUS. The chocolate on the inside was tasty and the outside almonds were crispy and yummy.” – Nika T., Yelp 

Red Ribbon Bake Shop 

“Overflowing with milk chocolate goodness” is the best way to describe Red Ribbon. They’ve got tons of desserts from cakes to cupcakes to sweet rolls and much more. If you’re trying to satisfy a chocolate craving, look no further!

San Luis Rey Bakery (& Restaurant) 

This quaint little bakery in Oceanside has all of your chocolate cravings waiting for you. Chocolate dipped Madeline cookies, thumbprint cookies, cupcakes and more. 

Pictured: Madeline Cookies with chocolate

“My new favorite bakery in Oceanside. My husband and I have discovered this gem two months ago after moving to the neighborhood. We absolutely love their selection of pastries, you cannot go wrong with any of them.” Tanja H., Yelp 

And of course, we can’t forget about all the awesome ice cream shops in Oceanside! Click here to read our Oceanside Ice Cream Joints. Enjoy!

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For Oceanside’s 125th Anniversary we have decided to collect 125 memories, so we’ve asked you to share some of your fondest Oceanside Memories with us! Here are are some of the memories that have been shared with us so far.

Help us get to 125 Oceanside Memories and share yours!

John D

“As a small child beginning when I was 5 I used to walk out on the Pier(without adults) and visit the little fish house about half way out. I was one of probably hundreds if not thousands of kids who walked up with any where from a nickel and got a piece of Smoked Fish. It was sooo good. Since I lived in the neighborhood it was something I did often.”

Tiffany K 

“My dad and his brothers used to work the Stussy surf meets for Molifua Security. My cousins and I got to spend all day at the beach while our dads worked. Sun up to sun down we were bare foot in the sand… It doesn’t get better than that!”

Jeanne G

“We will be celebrating my in laws 50th wedding anniversary this year… We are traveling from as far east as kentucky to get the family together to celebrate their union together… Some of us haven’t seen each other in about 10 years… Give or take. It should be a memorable time… and we’ll be there all week enjoying the sun, sand, surf and family.”

Jamie P

“I have lived here all my 32 years have been raised here, now raising my kids here. My favorite memory is during El Nino walking in the pouring rain barefoot on the beach. Then my best friend and I went walking on the pier. It swayed back and forth with a force of nature ill prob never see again . We continued to walk around all of oceanside enjoying the rain. being young and enjoying all the small things ♡”

Megan R

“Oceanside is where I met my husband! I grew up in New York and my roommate in college was from Oceanside. We made a deal freshman year, that if we were still roommates at the end, that we would take a trip to her hometown, Oceanside. That is exactly what we did. While we were out here, I met her friend from Oceanside High School. We were engaged 6 months later. We have been happily married ever since and have our second child on the way. Did I mention our family’s home is now Oceanside! We love Oceanside!”

Mary K

“While visiting Oside as I try to do annually, I was having a troubling time in my life. (One reason I escaped to the beautiful beach). As I was walking on the pier, I asked for a sign that everything would be ok, and that I was on the right path. Just as I looked at where I was stepping, I saw a macaw feather just sitting there, on the pier. I looked for someone to have a bird on their shoulder, no one did. So I picked it up and have it still. That’s my favorite memory!”

Agnes H

“Something abt being at the beach! When I didn’t go school I’m at the beach & walking the pier! Oceanside will always be in my Heart! I’m just up Northern Can. I have friends family so I will always hang with my Buddy Todd friends. Smile!”

Lori W

“Taking roses to throw off the pier In loving memory of Gramma Lillian. She had her ashes sprinkled in the Pacific Ocean. My mom, sister and I along with my husband and Gramma Lillian’s great grandchildren enjoy this time of remembering her!”

Adams W

“Born and raised in this beautiful city. Everyday of my life, from growing up and going to Laurel Elementary, Jefferson Jr High, and Oceanside High; to playing in the canyon, crawdad fishing where the 76 Freeway runs through! The Greatest people in the world live and are from Oceanside, California!”

Chris J

“Little Mr. & Miss Oceanside contest at the amphitheater at the pier, MC’d by Al Diederich, the voice of North County from KUDE 1320AM radio. The rough water swim at the pier and the fast walking competition that started and ended on the strand at the pier. Or Oceanside High School Friday night football games broadcasted on KUDE 1320AM radio by Al Diederich. My dad is Al Diederich, recently diagnosed with cancer.”

Faith P

“My favorite memory as a resident of downtown Oceanside was during the summer of 2011, when the power unexpectedly went out. My friend Adrian and I were just at the end of our pier walk when both pier and Strand lights went dark. And yet no one missed a beat or felt in a hurry to get home. Tourists continued to enjoy the view, fisherman kept casting out- and for a moment- against an exquisite deepening sunset – the beauty of Oceanside was suspended in time, Later that evening as darkness settled in, the folks at the Flying Pig restaurant poured wine for the locals while Pappys market opened its doors for those needing emergency supplies. I remain so proud of the residents, the tourists who we welcome as our own, and the heritage of this fine city.” 

Barbara W

“My memory of Oceanside was 1964, when my parents rented a beach house not far from the beach, just had to cross a street and we were at the beach, I could not wait to get in the ocean, could not wait to see the Sunrise, could not wait to see the Sunset, and yes we always walk to the Pier, and I do remember a small version of a Lighthouse near a playground. And my older sister and her friend getting in trouble because she met some Navy men. I never wanted to leave ever. I have been back a few times since, and always think of the good times as a Family we had.” 

Mike-Eva T

“Oceanside is where I grew up for 17 years and met my husband. It’s a place where we come back to every summer for vacation. A place where we go fishing. I know when we are home in Oceanside when I can smell the ocean and peppertrees. I miss my home everyday. There is plenty of memories there, and no place can compare to Oceanside!”

Lana P

“After being out of shape and heavy for so many years, the first time I rand the whole strand up and around the Harbor and I let out a whoopee, I did it and I will always love this area for I give the ocean much strength for guiding me along.”

Mike M

“After being out of shape and heavy for so many years, the first time I rand the whole strand up and around the Harbor and I let out a whoopee, I did it and I will always love this area for I give the ocean much strength for guiding me along.”

Monica N

“I just moved here in February from Phoenix (I was there 15 years, but originally from Poway). A friend drove down from LA, maybe the 3rd day I was here and she was going to help me unpack. We decided to go and get coffee at Maui Wowi, which was excellent by the way… Well, it was a gorgeous sunny morning and we decided to walk around. We ended up at the pier and it was the first time I had seen it. I felt like a kid! It’s such a magical place and we enjoyed watching the pelicans and the surfers. Everyone was so nice and the vibe was so carefree…I didn’t want to leave. So much for unpacking that day! I am so happy to be back in San Diego and very grateful to only live a few minutes from that gorgeous coast.”

Eileen P

“I brought my grandson Allen there for vacation and on the last day after checking out of the motel we walked the pier. The resident pelican let Allen walk right up to him, but the highlight was the sardine someone had left laying on the pier after fishing. Allen insisted he caught the little fish and we put it in a plastic baggie and brought it all the way home to Arizona. Needless to say, after that 6 hr drive home, that fish in the bag was pretty gross, but he was proud nonetheless. Love Oeanside. Moving there in Jan 2014.”

Robert M

“So many great memories in O’side to list. I grew up there and wish i never left. I visit every chance i get and have to get the best fish & chips in the world at the harbor. A great memory though is when i was young and me and my dad went to visit his good friend Donald Takayama at his surf shop Hawaiian Pro Designs in the ’80s. He gave me the tour of the whole place and gave me a t-shirt too. I especially liked checking out the shaping room. Good times RIP DT and my dad Bob-O.”

Alane G

“My husband proposed at the end of the pier. Our date nights used to include a walk on the pier, so it was the perfect place. He was so afraid I was going to throw the ring in the ocean thinking it was a coin machine ring because he used to pretend to propose with them all the time.”

Charlene H

“Taking a walk with my Grandson Daniel and having lunch together and then having lunch at Ruby’s . After that He so fancinated with all the seagulls and looking over the railings to watch the waves. It is amazing to watch their faces and reaction when they have never been on a pier.”

Denise M

“My grandson and I walked that peir faithfully he named a pelican Joe he was always there , he even let my grandson pet him while snapping at others i will always have that memory. Grandson now is six and lives in Idaho but has a concrete pelican sitting on his porch it reminds him of Grannie and Joe.”

Nancy P

“My most fondest memories of Oceanside are my late husband & I going down to the the strand every Sunday morning with our thermos of coffee and the Sunday paper. We would back up the truck & sit in back & have fun chatting with all the people walking by.. sometimes I actually read the paper! Since his passing over a year ago I have not done this but hope to find someone special who will get me there once again. Til then I still enjoy a nice walk all the way to the Harbour where Christmas wasnt real until we watch the Parade of Boats! Oceanside is my ‘home’ now for sure. SO much to offer and looking better & better in the past 10 years i have lived here. Thanks Oceanside”

Kelly B

“Visiting Oceanside was on my 30-Before-30 list, and when I arrived there from cold Minnesota, I fell in love with it! The pier, the surfers, the sunset were better than I could have imagined! Plus, we saw the Parade of Lights in the Harbor which was the coolest thing to do on a December night. I will be back some day!”

Welovesocalbuzz

“Oceanside pier will always be in my heart. That’s is where I found my best friend. Buzz was headed ti the shelter that day and I just happen to be down at tyson park when his owners had buzz and two of his brothers. He was 8 weeks old and they had to get rid of what was left of a litter of 8. When we saw each other I knew I had to have him. 5 years later, now we are now living in Tucson Arizona. We do get back to Oceanside for visits as much as possible and Buzz always loves going back to his birth home. .Thanks to Oceanside I found my best friend. Welovesocalbuzz.”

Thelma C

“4TH of July last year was the first time my mom and dad together at the beach with the family”

Terry D

“We lived in Oceanside for 14 years. Every Christmas after Santa came and we had Christmas dinner we would go to Oceanside pier and spend the rest of the day at the beach. It was a family tradition.”

 

For more on Oceanside’s 125 Year Anniversary click here

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El Torito

Enjoy a festive start to your Mother’s Day at El Torito’s all-you-can-eat brunch. Get your Mex fix with made-to-order omelets, hand-made tortillas, fresh fruit and salads, our decked-out taco bar, and your choice of desserts. “Toast with bottomless mimosas and aguas frescas to great comida, loyalamigos, and close familia.”

Marieta’s

Marieta’s likes to serve up their Mother’s Day Brunch with a Mexican flair; offering different authentic Mexican dishes, rice and beans, tortillas and fresh fruits. Champagne and Margaritas will also be served with the fine food on Mother’s Day. Marieta’s has a warm atmosphere along with live music. Seating is available on their patio as well as in the dining room and bar.

Jolly Roger Restaurant 

The Jolly Roger is a nautical themed restaurant serving everything from breakfast, to burgers, to steaks and seafood for lunch and dinner. Enjoy an Brunch Buffet on Sundays complete with carving station, omelet station and even live music! Plus, the restaurant is right on the Oceanside Harbor with a beautiful view of the harbor and boats. Something mom will be sure to love.

Monterey Bay Canners

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the harbor setting while you dine on perfectly prepared seafood, which is prepared fresh daily.  All of their seafood can be ordered mesquite broiled, blackened or sautéed and come with your choice of two sides. Champagne Sunday Brunch is served from 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m with adults priced at $23.95, and children at $6.95. Mom will love being on the Harbor.

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Cinco de Mayo is upon us – what are your plans for one of our favorite holidays? There are so many restaurants in Oceanside that are perfect for this fun, unique holiday! We love dining down at the Oceanside Harbor because all the establishments are close together and easy to walk to. Here is a list of the great restaurants at the Harbor where you can spend your Sunday!

Rockin Baja Coastal Cantina

Mexican and seafood menu with sports bar, patio dining, and gorgeous harbor views. Yes, they have free chips and salsa!

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Harbor Fish & Chips  

Located on the waterfront and serving up tons of fish dishes such as fish & chips, fish tacos and an authentic seafood menu.

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Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill

Second floor patio and inside dining with a great view of the water & boats.

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Dominic’s & D’Vino Wine Bar 

The restaurant has awesome Italian dishes including pasta and pizza. The wine bar has tons of Happy Hour specials!

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Joe’s Crab Shack

A popular seafood restaurant in the heart of the Harbor. Tons of seafood options, and a fun atmosphere!

Monterey Bay Canners

Happy Hour specials, seafood & American cuisine.

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Jolly Roger

An impressive menu! Seafood, steak, pasta and more. Daily Happy Hours and great seating.

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Beach Break at the Harbor 

You can definitely start your day here; they serve breakfast and lunch till 3pm.

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The Oceanside Harbor is a great place to spend your Cinco de Mayo. Whatever you do, please be safe. Check out all cab company info in Oceanside here. Have a safe & fun Cinco de Mayo!  

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Davina’s Cabo Grill

Enjoy and and experience gourmet Mexican food while enjoying the panoramic ocean view on top their amazing rooftop. Offering 3 levels of fun, live bands and DJs spinning, Taco Tuesday & lunch specials too! Happy Hour is everyday from 4-7pm. Drinks are 2 for 1 (excluding pitchers). Bottomless Mimosas, Bloody Maria’s, Bloody Mary’s, and Michelada’s for $9.95 on Saturday and Sunday. “Industry Sunday” includes an extended Happy Hour from 4-10pm with 2 for 1 drinks, DJ & dancing on their rooftop.

Tremont Street Bar & Grill

Tremont Street is a great downtown spot with front door parking, outdoor patio dog-friendly, and great daily specials like Taco Tuesday’s $1.99 fish, chicken, or tri tip. Tremont St. Bar and Grill is a sports-lover’s destination. Offering a full bar, full menu for lunch and dinner, and one of the best atmospheres found in Southern California. The outdoor patio is perfect for sitting outside in downtown Oceanside while watching the city live out a day in its life. The Bartenders and Waitresses are friendly, professional, and speedy, the cooks make delicious fresh food, and you can normally find one of the owners sitting at the corner of the bar nearest to the front door.

Fire Water Saloon

Fire Water Saloon is a fun, neighborhood sports bar. It offers plenty of beers on tap and friendly, outgoing bartenders. The bar has pool tables and HDTVs as well as a classic rock musical selection and low-key atmosphere.  Fire Water Saloon opens daily at 11am and stays open until 2am, with all major credit cards accepted. An ATM is inside and parking is free for up to two hours (until 6pm) outside. The bar has garnered local popularity as a hangout for military personnel and local citizens alike.

The Haunted Head Saloon

The Haunted Head Saloon is located along North Tremont Street in downtown Oceanside. While the outside looks like some storybook haunted house, the interior is set up to resemble a pirate ship, complete with a plank and captain’s quarters. Skeletons and caged dummies hang from the ceiling of this dark, atmospheric bar, with bartenders dressed up as pirates at least once a week. The beer selection is vast and there is plenty of seating inside, with loud rock music playing and a young crowd that begins to grow around dusk.  Credit cards are accepted and the bar is open until 2am every day.

Pier View Pub

Just a block off of N Tremont, Pier View Pub is located along Pier View Way in downtown Oceanside. This neighborhood bar is a popular hangout for locals with its low key atmosphere and beachfront vibe. It offers several beers on tap, including imported brews and a few craft beers. Seating is ample, whether looking for a table or a seat at the bar. The bartenders are friendly and, though beer is the main drink of the house, cocktails, martinis and more can be mixed without any problems. The doors are kept open most days, allowing for the sea breeze to flow through.

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